''As soon as we're outside the fence, we're in the thick of it. We fire when we have to … but essentially we're more of a deterrent than anything else.''

Harry spoke to reporters on three occasions during his time in Afghanistan under an agreement which only allowed the interviews to be released once he left the war zone.

The prince supported allied troops fighting the Taliban at close quarters and accompanied British and US helicopters on missions to evacuate casualties.

'Too much army, not enough prince' ... The young royal plays video games at Camp Bastion in Helmand Province, right, and dons a Santa hat while showing a TV crew around his sleeping quarters, left. Photo: AFP and Reuters

As co-pilot, Harry was in charge of the weapons systems in the cockpit, firing Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, rockets and a 30-millimetre gun.

''It's a joy for me because I'm one of those people who loves playing PlayStation and Xbox, so with my thumbs I like to think I'm probably quite useful,'' he said.

When on a shift requiring a high level of readiness, Harry and the other three members of his squadron sprinted to their helicopters in less than 45 seconds and were airborne within five minutes of an alert.